And, finally, to offer support for the police service, including £60,000 to pay for a new communications system

After his arrival, joined by the French President, Nicolas Sarkozy, the leaders visited a hospital in Tripoli, where they were clapped and cheered by staff and patients.

Speaking to the BBC at the airport, Mr Cameron said he was delighted to be in Tripoli, adding that he "hoped to work for a better and free and democratic Libya".

The two leaders are very popular in Libya, where common graffiti slogans include: "Merci Sarkozy!" and "Thank you Britain!"

Mr Cameron and Mr Sarkozy are expected to meet National Transitional Council (NTC) leaders in Tripoli later today, before flying to Benghazi, where they are expected to speak in the former rebel stronghold's Liberty Square.